Issue 10.28.15

S A C R E D

H E A R T

U N I V E R S I T Y

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C O N N E C T I C U T

“SHEDDING LIGHT ON CAMPUS NEWS SINCE 1983”

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2015

INTHISissue

F A I R F I E L D ,

VOLUME 35, ISSUE 6

Families Join Pioneer Nation Sacred Heart welcomes families for 25th Annual Family Weekend

HE SAID/ SHE SAID

Melanie and Anthony discuss their Halloween perspectives

IS SHU TOO BIG?

Students share their perspectives on campus expansion

BURGER CHALLENGE

It’s Fairfield University vs.

Sacred Heart in a challenge at Flipside Burgers

ARTIST CORNER

Student artwork is profiled

SCOTT SHANE

New York Times writer and author Scott Shane discusses his latest novel

SHU HOOPS

Kickoff to men’s & women’s basketball season with a special guest performance

TWEETS of the Week @Kailey_Clark “Just wondering if Sacred Heart students can attend a parking class instead of a colloquia.”

@amanda_mcguiree “I feel bad for the ugly pumpkins that no one wants :(“

@MikeMazzilli23

MARK F. CONRAD/ SACRED HEART UNIVERSITY

“When your professor pulls up his and SACRED HEART UNIVERSITY STUDENTS AND THEIR FAMILIES HAD PLENTY OF ACTIVITIES TO ATTEND DURING THIS PAST WEEKEND his wife’s pregnancy photo shoot on photo frame labeled “Family Weekend 2015.” Performing Arts.

BY DAVID RUSSO “This was one of the highest attended Although the Pioneers suffered a 26-10 the projector.”

Staff Reporter

“Tweets of the Week” are taken from a public forum on Twitter. Tweets are opinions of the individual and do not represent the opinions of Sacred Heart University or The Spectrum Newspaper. If you want to see your Tweet in the newspaper, use the hashtag #ShuSpectrum and you may be featured!

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Sacred Heart students and their families all came together this past weekend to enjoy a weekend on campus.

Starting Friday Oct. 23 through Sunday Oct. 25, there were various events held around campus to welcome and host students and families.

“Every year we have a different theme for Family Weekend. This year our theme was ‘Picture Perfect.’ So we provided opportunities at each event for families to capture their memories of the weekend,” said Denise Tiberio, Associate Dean of Students. “We started preparing for Family Weekend last April. Every year our weekend is centered around a home football game.

So once the schedule is released we start our planning.”

The main event of the weekend was the tailgating party held prior to the home football game against Central Connecticut State University. At the tailgate there were food tents, a live DJ, and areas where families could take pictures with a life-size

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loss, the families in attendance still enjoyed their time and the energy-filled stands.

“Over the weekend my family and I attended the football game, and since I am 21, I also brought them to Red’s,” said senior Brian Gibson. “We had a great time and it was fun meeting up with some of my friends’ families too.”

Another event, held by the science department, was called “Science Ambassadors,” which featured various activities for families to take part in.

“We wanted to get the parents and their kids actively involved with having hands on experiments,” said assistant professor Linda Farber, Ph.D., who was in charge of the event.

Other events throughout the weekend included SHU Hoops Madness, a percussion event, a champagne breakfast with President Petillo for those over 21 years old, and an annual choir concert.

Junior Tiffanie Rodenberg celebrated the weekend with her mom. On Sunday, she finished up the weekend by performing in the annual concert at the Edgerton Center for

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concerts for the semester. It was very humbling to see an audience full of happy and proud parents, enjoying the music that their children have been working on for the past two months,” said Rodenberg.

However, two of the most popular events were the tailgate and family bingo.

“Our participation for this Family Weekend is fantastic. Many events were already filled to capacity with the Tailgate Party hosting 2,000 and SHU favorite, bingo, was sold out with 800 attending,” said Tiberio.

Sacred Heart’s parking lots, and surrounding fields were open for tailgating.

Families had the ability to barbecue with their students, before and after the game.

“I have attended all four years of Family Weekend but this year’s tailgate party was one of my favorite events,” said senior Lindsey Balukonis. “I think it’s a great opportunity to prove how much of a community we are and it’s cool to see everyone come together.”

Co-News Editor Ally D’Amico contributed to this article.

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The Sacred Heart Spectrum

News

October 28, 2015

“

I find it fascinating that our school is even allowing this type of freedom of speech, especially with the students. It’s very rare especially with the amount of indifference and chaos going on in the world.

- Junior Juliette Rivera

Crime at Sacred Heart: By the Numbers

BY CHRISTIAN COLON Asst. News Editor

On Sept. 30, Sacred Heart University released the annual campus crime and fire safety report, which listed all reported activity that occurred within Sacred Heart property, including it’s international campus.

Updated on a triennial cycle, this report provided the public with statistics and information regarding public safety.

According to Paul Healy, the executive director for public safety and emergency management at Sacred Heart, the report was constructed through a collaborative process undertaken by local law enforcement and university officials.

“We obtained the information on the crimes that are numerated from municipal police departments and from state police,” said Healy. “Other things that get reported on college campuses are done by the dean of students office, which is anything related to disciplinary matters relative to alcohol or other offenses.”

Sacred Heart’s Fairfield campus was the only facility that had crime reported. Since 2012, over 439 liquor law violations have occurred, making it the most probable violation to occur within the university.

Junior Amanda Tyrrel said that alcohol doesn’t seem to be an issue at Sacred Heart.

“I feel that since we are a college campus, alcohol will be a serious issue just like I’m sure it is at other universities. I think it comes with the territory of being a college campus. I’ve never seen alcohol as a big deal here, but I don’t think we’re protected from that stigma or the actions of our students,” said Tyrrel. “There are bound to be students on all sides of the spectrum in terms of usage and abuse of alcohol.”

The report also stated that there has been one incident of sexual offense, as well as an aggravated assault within the Fairfield campus.

Healy said that if a person is assaulted they should be aware of the options offered to them by the university.

“As a university security official, my role is to provide the victims with the right information, guidance, and counseling, so that they can make proper decisions for themselves,” said Healy.

He encourages the community to use the communication tools they have worked hard to put forward, such as the SHU Safe App and the Silent Witness program.

On Oct. 23, all Fairfield public schools went on lockdown due to an unverifiable threat. Public safety communication was key as they emailed the Sacred Heart community around 11:00 a.m. informing the community

“

2 | News

what was occurring just a few miles away from main campus.

“Just this Friday, I walked into my class to hear students saying there was a shooter near campus and bomb threats to Sacred Heart. While this information was clearly untrue and I was uninformed of the issue occurring in Fairfield, my entire class, as well as my unaware professor, rushed quickly out of class,” said sophomore Taryn McCormick.

Although McCormick said she never feels unsafe at Sacred Heart, she did feel as if there was a delay in informing the students and parents about the threats being issued to schools around the area.

Sophomore Gwen Mileti checked her email after class and immediately called her cousin who was currently on lockdown in a Fairfield school.

“I saw the email when I woke up, but I ignored it because I thought it was something irrelevant,” said Mileti.

Mileti said that Sacred Heart is a small enough school that everyone would have found out in minutes if something were to actually occur.

“We just finished a meeting with our local municipalities and departments, and we outlined our procedures on what would happen if an incident were to occur,” said Healy.

“They will respond immediately to the scene and we will deliver messages to everyone through our mediums.”

Occupy the Gallery: Revolutionizing Academic Territory

BY CHRISTIAN CARTER Staff Reporter

COURTESY OF PROF. JONATHAN WALKER/ SACRED HEART UNIVERSITY

THE LOGO OF R.A.T., OR REVOLUTIONING ACADEMIC TERRITORY

Graffiti walls and chalk are all part of a new gallery display located in Sacred Heart University’s Edgerton Art Gallery. The intention behind these walls is to give every student the opportunity to publicly express their views on anything they want.

Revolutionizing Academic Territory, or R.A.T., is a student-run organization that shares an evident focus to use design for “good” in a way that makes the larger student body think about the current issues.

According to a global email sent to the Sacred Heart community, “We have replaced the walls with graffiti walls containing social commentary and art. We have also provided plenty of chalk to scrawl your marks anywhere on the graffiti walls,” said Professor Jonathan Walker of the Art and Design department.

Social issues are highlighted in the exhibit that most students will deal with at some point during their undergraduate or graduate academic experiences. They relate to privacy, racism, social media and having the initiative to start a change or become more involved on their campus.

R.A.T. notices these issues and revolutionizes the academic atmosphere by offering a “free space” for students to share what they believe is imperative to the student community. Art and design majors at Sacred Heart found the exhibit a great outlet for students to voice their own opinion.

“I have seen the graffiti walls for myself and I think the exhibit has good intentions, but I’m not sure if it will be used in the right way,” said junior Tyler Beauchesne-Headley. “People are filling up the spaces with meaningless information such as their social media names which is completely besides the point.”

As an art and design major himself, BeauchesneHeadley not only finds the R.A.T. exhibit intriguing, but would recommend ways to possibly see the exhibit done better.

“I’m not entirely sure that students can express themselves on that particular wall which has already been filled with R.A.T.’s own promos and information. I was interested in putting up my own graffiti message, but was turned off by what was available,” said BeauchesneHeadley. “I wish it was just a wall viewed and marked only by select people in the most prominent areas.”

A few Sacred Heart students suggest the graffiti walls could influence students to make a difference politically, socially and even internally amongst themselves.

“I find it fascinating that our school is even allowing this type of freedom of speech, especially with the students.

It’s very rare, especially with the amount of indifference and chaos going on in the world, but it is important for our voice to be heard rather than building up anger that can later negatively affect the Sacred Heart community,” said junior Juliette Rivera. “I would love to see this event again, but rather allow students to conjure new ways to express our voice without regulation.”

As R.A.T. proves its purpose in revolutionizing Sacred Heart’s campus, students can now use art as a tool to interact with their community, ultimately taking time from their academics or school activities to start an informal conversation voicing what students perceive as personally important.

“The graffiti walls have the potential to become very powerful at Sacred Heart,” said Beauchesne-Headley.

Ferreira. “Rent is expensive, especially for a college student, and this gives an opportunity for SHU students to get a free place to live if they volunteer here at Easton EMS. This volunteer experience is very rewarding and fulfilling.”

Easton EMS has been part of the community for almost 69 years, and has also spread their services to other towns in need of medical help.

“I think Easton EMS is a great resource, for not only Easton residents but also the towns surrounding Easton, because we do on occasion assist in emergency medical calls in neighboring towns,” said Ferreira. “Easton EMS signifies a close knit community which focuses on helping those in emergency medical situations, ranging from transportations to hospitals to severe life-saving maneuvers.”

Volunteers will be in a hands-on environment that gives students a look into real-life medical situations and scenarios that take place in ambulances and in hospitals.

“This is an experience like not too many others in Connecticut. It will give the students the ability to practice emergency medicine with a diverse organization with a call volume of approximately 450 calls a year,” said Arnold. “I have been with Easton EMS since 1992 as an EMT. I have been lucky enough to receive tremendous

amounts of training and make numerous connections that have opened doors to opportunities that have allowed me to grow and prosper in my personal and professional life.”

Students who volunteer with Easton EMS will answer 911 ambulance calls between the hours of 12 a.m. and 7 a.m. Monday through Friday during the school year.

“I also get great experience watching the paramedic who sometimes rides with us in the ambulance. Sometimes they do other procedures I have never seen, which is quite neat and opens me up to more knowledge,” said Ferreira.

“Even once we get to the hospital, I have the opportunity to watch the doctors perform other life–saving operations.”

Volunteers for Easton EMS get experience in different social situations, while serving the local community they live in.

“Even putting a Band-Aid on a little kid can make my day. They smile from ear to ear with such gratitude, and it isn’t something you can really get anywhere else,” said Ferreira.

Sacred Heart students who are interested in the opportunity to volunteer for the Easton EMS can fill out the application on the Easton EMS website at www. eastonems.com/volunteer, or can contact Jonathan Arnold directly through his email at jarnold@eastonems.com.

Easton EMS Offering Opportunity for Certified EMT Students

BY ALEXA BINKOWITZ Staff Reporter

Easton Emergency Medical Services, a volunteer organization of certified emergency medical technicians (EMTs), has served the Easton, Conn. community and the surrounding areas since 1946.

Easton EMS is an all-volunteer organization providing 911 ambulance service for emergencies such as heart attacks, strokes, car accidents, falls, burns, and childbirth.

They are now calling upon Sacred Heart University students who are certified EMTs to volunteer for their livein EMS program.

“SHU students, who are certified EMTs with the state of Connecticut, would be getting a place to live within the EMS headquarters building in exchange for answering 911 ambulance calls,” said Jonathan Arnold, the assistant chief of operations at Easton EMS. Volunteering for Easton EMS would provide Sacred Heart students with patient-contact hours and experience utilizing the skills necessary for success in the medical field, all while having a place to live at no cost.

“I have been volunteering at Easton EMS for almost two years and absolutely love it,” said junior Liana

October 28, 2015

The Sacred Heart Spectrum

Perspectives

Perspectives | 3

“It’s just a Bunch of Hocus Pocus” He Said She Said ANTHONY...

MELANIE... ...

All Hallow’s Eve. The time of year where things go bump in the night and children run amok flinging toilet paper and eggs.

Historically, Halloween can be traced back 2,000 years to the Celtic festival, Samhain (Pronounced Sow-Inn). The celebration marked the beginning of winter, associated with frequent death.

It was believed that on Oct. 31, the line between the living world and the spirit world blurred, allowing for ghosts to return to the Earth. Cue eerie ghost noise.

When European immigrants came to America, their customs came with them.

However, because of the insanely rigid Protestant beliefs, we were afraid of dabbling with witchcraft and connecting with the dead.

The holiday became less grotesque, and most of the superstitious undertones were lost.

Okay, that’s enough of a history lesson.

This all being said, I have something I need to get off my chest.

I believe in the paranormal.

I believe that Halloween is a time where Spirits can cross over. I think people can talk to dead. Ouija boards freak me out.

Laugh at me for being superstitious.

I don’t care. If believing in the Spirit realm diminishes my credibility as a person in society, so be it.

If you’re still with me, then I’m here to offer you some tips on how not to die in a terrible horror movie cliché.

First, don’t mess around with the supernatural. Don’t throw a party in a graveyard, don’t light any candles in abandoned buildings, and if you find a strange artifact that makes you feel

weird, don’t bring it home with you. Are you looking to be possessed?

However, if you do find yourself in the middle of some strange situation that you can’t make sense of, here are some things you don’t do: Don’t let your parents leave you home alone for some weird vacation they want to take.

Don’t take a closing shift at work and be the only one to lock up the store in total darkness.

Next, remember that Halloween is NOT a time for romance.

If you find that your friends are dying one by one, it is the worst idea to go on a date. The killer will catch you off guard in a moment of intimacy and kill you.

Plus, if you can think about dating someone when all your friends are dying, you seriously need to rethink your priorities.

If you’re hiding from a killer, ghost, zombie or demon, do be smart about how and where you hide.

Don’t hide in a shed with lots of weapons.

If you’re upstairs and hear a weird sound when no one’s home, don’t go downstairs.

“Mom, is that you?” It’s not your mom. She would have asked you to help unpack the groceries by now.

I understand that these things may sound ridiculous. If you think it’ll be hilarious to stay in a house you suspect is haunted, go ahead.

I’ll have no sympathy for you when the ghosts come to smite you.

If you’re looking for me on Oct. 31, I’ll be under the safety of a thick blanket eating candy corn.

You’ve been warned.

Even in my old age of 19, I still embrace Halloween as a top-tier holiday.

Is there reason not to, though?

When you’re younger, only Christmas can rival the excitement of All Hallows’ Eve. There’s the trick-or-treating, the classic ABC Family movies that air in October, and the fact that you thought up the undisputed coolest costume on the block (shout out to Zorro; I felt tough wearing that mask).

As a college student, I appreciate the day just as much as I always have, but Halloween takes on a slightly different meaning now.

For one, my costume game has weakened significantly.

I still dress up, but always at the last minute, and usually in a basketball jersey.

At the moment, finding a costume is just not as much of a priority as it once was for some reason.

When I graduate and start to work— and if I also get to be a father one day (a million years from now)—then I’ll get creative with my costumes again.

Parties are also different at this stage of the game. Whereas I used to find the punch bowl once I got to the elementary school Halloween dance, I now see one at a party and just stare at it skeptically.

The suspicious-looking dude wearing the Jack Sparrow costume isn’t fooling me.

Another aspect of the young adult version of Halloween I love, rests within the controversial topic of how girls dress for it.

Some say some girls don’t wear enough clothes. I say we should leave them alone (a shocking statement coming from a guy, I know).

Ladies, gentlemen, and good people

of the Halloween Police Department: wear what you want to for the occasion.

In these United States of America, it is your right to dress up as Pamela Anderson, Anthony Anderson, or whichever Anderson you see fit.

Also, ladies: I understand no one can command you to put on more clothes (besides your father, at least).

That’s why I’m putting forth this commentary on Halloween female wear, to help you ward off judgments you may feel coming from others who don’t approve.

Look. Girls like when David Beckham wears underwear in advertisements. Guys like when a girl channels her inner Anne Hathaway from “The Dark Knight Rises” on Halloween.

We’re naturally attracted to such things, and Halloween is just another excuse for people to either hate it or love it. I choose love.

Another important point to make is how I don’t find it a necessity for girls to wear something Hathaway’s character in that movie would. In fact, I appreciate a funny costume just as much. Average costumes? No appreciation. Clever ones? Definitely.

Halloween is also fun in college because these four years are the only ones in which one gets to celebrate it with all their college friends. After this, it’s all reunions and well-planned get-togethers.

Between the carved pumpkins with faces and the silly costumes, All Hallows’ Eve may seem a tradition best fit for kids.

However, the idea that a young adult or anyone older cannot enjoy it too is straight up foolish.

So enjoy Halloween, and let it make you feel young. You’ll live longer.

Harvest Week

All events free to Sacred Heart students Wednesday, Oct. 28 Psychic Fair 8 p.m. - 12 a.m.

University Commons

Thursday, Oct. 29 Chalk Mason Jars & Trick-or-Treating 3 p.m. - 7 p.m.

University Commons

Friday, Oct. 30 Caramel Apples & Wax Hands 12 p.m. - 4 p.m.

University Commons

4 | Perspectives

The Sacred Heart Spectrum

Perspectives

October 28, 2015

Is Sacred Heart Getting Too Big? Hover Boards:

BY ILARIA DEANGELIS Is the Fad Trendy or Frivolous?

Staff Reporter The expansion and constant growth of Sacred Heart is something that everyone is taking notice of. But is it possible that Sacred Heart is getting too big?

“Sacred Heart has so much potential to be a great university and was being held back by not expanding. Once they received the rights to build the business building and the new dorms there have been many new opportunities added to the school,” said senior Christina Mogelnicki.

A growing university means growing class sizes each year.

According to statistics on Study.com, Sacred Heart accepted 968 students in 2011. In 2014, 1,400 students were accepted, making the class of 2018 the largest freshman class in Sacred Heart history, according to the Sacred Heart website.

The past three freshman classes have been the largest classes that the university has ever seen, leading to a call for an expansion of the university itself.

Director of Campus Experience Rob Gilmore, an alumnus of Sacred Heart, commented on the university expansion and how Sacred Heart has impacted him as a student and now as a staff member.

“I chose SHU as a transfer option because I was compelled by its uniqueness [compared to] colleges in the area.

It was a school that I felt I belonged at, and that’s still a feeling that prospective students get when they come here.”

When asked if Sacred Heart is losing its small school feel, Gilmore said, “Absolutely not.”

“The university is growing but it’s growing with the idea that every student has their own individualized

attention and resources to succeed to the best of their ability,” said Gilmore.

“I think it’s a good thing that we’re expanding. With a growing university, there are more opportunities to do things in the school and the resources become more plentiful,” said sophomore Bethany Halliwell.

However, some students agreed that the university could be taking on more than it can handle.

“The only thing SHU needs to improve on is accepting enough students to accommodate in this small, now medium-sized school,” said sophomore Kennedy Pavlik. “We need to have a balance between taking in more people and building larger [accomodations].”

Some students have different opinions about how Sacred Heart used to be compared to how it is now.

“When I was a freshman at SHU, my class was the last ‘small class’ admitted,” said Mogelnicki. “The campus was a ghost town on the weekends because everyone went home and it still felt like the school was stuck in that transition from being a commuter university.”

Even after only one year, students see the changes of what was once a small university.

“There are more people on campus and more events happening to be able to entertain and accommodate all these new students. As a senior I can very much see the positive change in the university,” said Mogelnicki.

Many people have their opinions on Sacred Heart’s constant expansion and growth.

“You realize what makes this place special, and no matter who we are or what we do, we are a community.

When you become a Pioneer for a day, you become a Pioneer for a lifetime,” said Gilmore.

“With these boards, getting students to their classes or clubs and extracurricular activities is a breeze, giving them more time to do work.” ~ Pat Robinson, Sophomore

“I’ve seen how new hot items get their big hype, just like roller blades did back then. Now who’s using them? No one. I would much rather just use the scooter which was 5 bucks compared to 500 bucks. And I get to throw this thing anywhere I want and don’t have to worry about it breaking.” ~ Professor Gregory Golda “It’s completely stupid. Half of the basketball team has one and I just don’t get it. If I was the coach I would make them run drills for hours to make up for not walking. ~ Sherad Savage, Graduate Student “I think these boards are here to stay. They look very cool and famous celebrities endorse them so that’s one reason they will continue to sell. Two of my teammates have them and three more are supposed to get them.” ~ Tevin Falzon, Junior

“Secretly I want one, but I don’t want to spend the money. It also eliminates basic exercise. We will all just become fat if we start riding hover boards.” ~ Arianna Taite, Sophomore

Poet’s Corner...

“Spell Bound” “Flower Child” By: Christine M. Zangrillo, Junior

By: Ray Fagon, Senior

I’m trapped under your spell, Wondering why this heaven is so close to hell.

Am I resigned to a past fate, With nothing to show for all my wait?

But pleasure is pain, Just as a loss can precede a gain.

Can temporary contentment Outweigh the underlying ripple effect of future disappointment?

Questions like this can haunt the mind, But their answers we might not want to find.

A seed floats in the wind Flying free it takes a whimsical journey O'er many grassy fields; Each a lush green ocean beneath the brightest of blue skies

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As the day nears it's end the winds settle into a cool comforting breeze And this seed softly drifts onto the warm and soothing ground.

Settling down the seed is openly welcomed into it's new home.

With love and nourishment the seed begins to grow.

From a precious baby floating in the wind Blooms the most beautiful flower Who sways freely amongst it's kin.

So that one day this miracle may begin again.

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@SHUSpectrum

October 28, 2015

The Sacred Heart Spectrum

Editorials

Editorials | 5

meetTHESTAFF EDITOR IN CHIEF EMILY ARCHACKI 2016 MANAGING EDITOR MELANIE HOLEC 2016 COPY EDITOR JESSICA CHALOUX 2017 COPY EDITOR BILLY SANCHEZ 2016 NEWS EDITOR ALLY D’AMICO 2016 NEWS EDITOR GABBY NUTILE 2017 ASST. NEWS EDITOR CHRISTIAN COLON 2017 PERSPECTIVES EDITOR MELANIE VOLLONO 2016 ASST. PERSPECTIVES EDITOR GIOVANNA GATTO 2018 FEATURES EDITOR NICOLE CANNIZZARO 2016 ASST. FEATURES EDITOR MARINNA DESANTIS 2016 A&E EDITOR NATALIE CIOFFARI 2017 ASST. A&E EDITOR HALEY TANELLA 2016 SPORTS EDITOR SHAWN SAILER 2017 ASST. SPORTS EDITOR ANTHONY SANTINO 2018 ASST. SPORTS EDITOR TAMARIC WILSON 2017 ADVERTISING MANAGER BRIDGET HUGHES 2016 WEB & SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER HALEY TANELLA 2016 PR & CIRCULATION MANAGER JENNA BILLINGS 2017 PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR FILIPE LOBATO 2016 ASST. PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR ALEXA BRISSON 2017 GRAPHIC DESIGN EDITOR GINA BATTAGLIA 2017 GRAPHIC DESIGN EDITOR JULIANNA DIDONATO 2017 FACULTY ADVISOR PROF. JOANNE KABAK

Change Is a Good Thing GABBY NUTILE CO-NEWS EDITOR

Every student in college has experienced change, but not everyone believes that change is a good thing. The transition from high school to college is a huge one, and it’s a change that some handle better than others.

I can say from my own experience that I was definitely not one of the better ones, especially during my first two weeks of college.

My life before college was always stagnant. I woke up in the same house that I’ve been living in for almost 15 years, and had the same schedule I had been going by for all my life. I woke up at 7 a.m., brushed my teeth, ate breakfast, started school at 8 a.m.

Then I got out of school at 2 p.m., had sports practice, ate dinner, finished homework, and then went to sleep.

That was what my life was like for more than half of my existence, and the thought of that all changing terrified me.

College is nothing like high school. There are no socially constructed barriers, no set schedule, and you’re completely independent. I, and almost everyone at college, was used to the same routine day by day, and I did not mind it. I liked knowing what every day was going to be like. I liked coming back to my house to recharge myself for the next day. I liked all of this because it was all I knew. That was my comfort zone.

When I moved into college freshman year, I was excited and fearful at the same time. Excited because everyone said how fun

it is and that I’d love it. Fearful because this was going to turn my world upside down, and I did not welcome that.

The first two weeks attending Sacred Heart were probably the hardest two weeks of my life. I missed my family tremendously, I missed my friends like crazy, and I had no grasp on how to handle this new part of my life. It’s not that I didn’t like making new friends or the independence that came with this new phase of my life, I was just scared of change.

From the past two years of college, I can confidently say that I have changed, and definitely for the better. I have pushed myself out of my comfort zone multiple times, because I realize that you need to in order to get to the place you want to be in life. You don’t get anywhere in life by staying in the same place. Getting over the fear of change, I have tried to make the most of my college years so far. If I have learned anything about change, it’s that it is inevitable, but how we react to it is totally up to us.

A new change faces me. I am going to be studying abroad this spring semester of my junior year in Rome, Italy. This is a huge leap for myself as a student and as an individual. This will ultimately push me out of my comfort zone further because I will be in a different part of the world, immersing myself into a new culture.

This time I’ll make sure to embrace this change, because change is a good thing if you let it become a good thing.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN FROM THE SPECTRUM STAFF The editorial page is an open forum. Editorials are the opinions of the individual editors and do not represent the opinions of the whole editorial board. Letters to the editor are encouraged and are due by Sunday at noon for consideration for each Wednesday’s issue. All submissions are subject to editing for spelling, punctuation, and length.

Letters to the editor should not exceed 400 words and should be e-mailed to spectrum@sacredheart.edu. The Spectrum does not assume copyright for any published material. We are not responsible for the opinions of the writers voiced in this forum.

6 | Features

The Sacred Heart Spectrum

October 28, 2015

Features

Student Spotlight: Meaghan McGann

to question herself and the way we live in America after McGann feels blessed to have the amazing memories hearing the truths about United States’ involvement in the she’s taken from each trip and believes that the war in El Salvador in the 1990s. relationships she has made and her various experiences in “The El Salvador trip completely redefined the meaning new cultures are ones that she will treasure forever. of mission trip by challenging me to engage in service listening. Instead of getting your hands dirty, you offer your service to the people by listening to their stories and immersing yourself in the beautiful culture they offer to you,” said McGann.

McGann’s service doesn’t stop with mission trips. She also volunteers her time to a variety of community service organizations and keeps her mind and heart open to new experiences.

“I have always had a deep devotion to the special needs community, so I am very involved in any volunteer work involving the community that is incredibly close to my heart. I also have a strong connection with the homeless community in my home city of Denver, Colo. So whenever I go home I make my way to the soup kitchen I have volunteered at since high school,” said McGann.

McGann found out about her recent trips through the Sacred Heart community, but the internet is able to find trips all over the world. If you are looking into your first mission trip, she recommends fundraising so that you can afford to take part in these life-changing experiences.

“It depends, but in general mission trips do cost a lot of money. Fundraising is always available and normally highly successful, especially when you’re traveling with a group,” said McGann.

McGann encourages people to prepare before hand and realize that the way most people live around the world is outrageously different than the way that we are blessed to live in the United States.

“It is not our job to ‘fix’ the way they live, it is our job to experience life with them and learn about their way of life. In general, we don’t live in a minimalistic society,” said McGann. “Which is a huge difference from the other countries. So take that culture shock that you will experience and push yourself to embrace the idea of Meaghan McGann/ Sacred Heart University minimalism. There is no beauty more brilliant than the MEAGHAN CHANGING HER VIEW ON SERVICE AND GIVING BACK beauty of simplicity.”

BY NICOLE CANNIZZARO Staff Reporter According to the mission statement of Sacred Heart University, the focus of the university itself is “to assist in the development of people knowledgeable of self, rooted in faith, educated in mind, compassion in heart, responsive to social and civil obligations, and able to respond to an ever-changing world.”

When it comes to graduate student Meaghan McGann, Sacred Heart can say: mission accomplished.

McGann graduated last year with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and is now in graduate school at Sacred Heart for Speech Language Pathology.

However, her feats outside of the classroom are another thing to be proud of.

Beginning in high school, McGann became involved in volunteer work and mission trips within the United States.

“I found it important for me to dedicate myself to understanding the struggles of my own country before venturing abroad. It wasn’t until last year when I finally took my first trip to a new country,” said McGann.

McGann traveled abroad to El Salvador on Sacred Heart’s alternative spring break trip in 2015 and then to Guatemala with the College of Health Professions as part of the Speech Language Pathology team.

She believes that each trip brings something different to those involved.

Her trip to Guatemala included speech language pathologists, nurses, occupational therapists, and physical therapists.

“Each discipline brings something different to support the Guatemalan community from a health profession standpoint. Most importantly, we all share the same desire to learn and embrace the culture of the people we meet,” said McGann. “Not only did I form relationships with amazing people from the SHU community through this trip, but I also came home with relationships with Guatemalan people that will last a lifetime.”

Her trip to El Salvador was more of a learning experience than any other for McGann. The trip led her

Veteran Spotlight

United States Marine Corps Sergeant Nicholas Quinzi Photo Courtesy of Nicholas Quinzi

BY MARINNA DESANTIS Asst. Features Editor

Q: What was one of the best memories from your experience?

A: Meeting and marrying my wife in Japan.

Q: Why did you decide to come back to college?

A: The biggest influence on me going back to school was my wife and daughter. Without an education, how would I be able to provide for them?

Q: What do you think your biggest challenge or obstacle has been while readjusting?

A: Not having the same camaraderie I had with my peers in the service.

Q: Why did you pick Sacred Heart?

A: I am originally from Tampa, Fla. and graduated high school in 2003 from Grace Christian School. There was an advisor that came and spoke to us. Since then it has always been a school I have wanted to go to. After my wife’s time in service came to an end, knowing we were going to Connecticut where she is from, I had to take the opportunity.

Freshman Nicholas Quinzi is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps. His enlistment lasted from June 2009 to June 2014. While in combat, he was stationed in Okinawa, Japan.

Q: Why did you first decide to join the Marines and why did you choose this branch?

A: For me I joined late, I was tired of working dead end jobs, feeling like I wasn’t going anywhere. [I wanted to] feel like a part of something that would make my family, especially my little brother and sister, proud. So I met with the recruiter and made the best choice of my life.

Q: How have the Marines supported you during your time back in school?

A: While at Norwalk Community College, being heavily involved in their Veterans Club and meeting other veterans helped the transition the most. As well as the help from the Veteran Initiative To Academic Leadership (VITAL) program that is now being offered at Sacred Heart.

Q: Has there been anything during your time in the Marines that has helped you in school?

A: The discipline has been a huge help for me to stay focused and on top of classwork.

Q: Did your time in the Marines help influence your decision to major in physical therapy?

A: It did, for me it was probably the main influence. After having two ankle surgeries while in the service and seeing a lot of the process, it really made me want to get into that field with the end goal of being able to work on a military installation or Veterans Affairs clinic.

Q: Are you working along side taking classes or are you a full time student?

A: I am a full time student and work part time when possible due to my wife being a full time student and wanting to take care of our daughter instead of getting a full time daycare or babysitter.

Q: Do you feel as if the Sacred Heart community has been welcoming and supportive?

A: The Sacred Heart community has been pretty good so far. The only thing I have found to be a little discouraging is the lack of a Veterans Club, but quite a few of us have gotten together and we are trying to make it happen.

Q: Have you felt like it is difficult in any way to be slightly older than your peers?

A: It is a little difficult at times, but for the most part at this institution it is a lot easier since this school has a more driven student population than I have seen.

Q: What has been your best memory at Sacred Heart so far?

A: Best memory at Sacred Heart... I would probably have to narrow it to two. First is hearing the VITAL Program is now offered on campus with an awesome advisor named Amy Kaplan, who helped my transition tremendously from Marine to student at Norwalk Community College.

Second would be meeting with Mr. Jon DeBenedictis, who is a Part-time Undergraduate Advisor, and Amy Ricci from Student Activities. They have been a huge help in all the matters pertaining to getting a Veterans Club on campus.

October 28, 2015

The Sacred Heart Spectrum

Features

Features | 7

Deborah Noack Named Director of Communications

BY KYRA DERSARKISSIAN Staff Reporter Sacred Heart University’s Deborah Noack has been chosen to be head director of communications as of this academic year.

Noack graduated from the University of Maine, Orono with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and began her career as a writer.

Noack started writing for a small weekly newspaper in New Hampshire and spent close to seven years there.

Shortly after, she moved to Connecticut and became the editor of the Stratford Bard.

“I moved into doing public relations for the Stratford Public Schools in 1988,” she said. “I helped them build their school business partnership program. After that I moved into a corporate job at Health Magazine. Then I started freelancing for Sacred Heart and now I’m here.”

Noack worked at Sacred Heart for four years before taking on the role as director of communications.

“It’s been an interesting transition. I found the new job is a lot more of attending meetings and finding out what is

going on throughout the university so I can pass that onto my staff and keep them informed,” said Noack.

With this title, Noack is in charge of writing and assigning stories for the school website, writing press releases to send to local press, and responding to requests that may come in from the press.

“Anything can happen. Sometimes all of a sudden the president needs a letter or something written, so I’ll do that as well as write scripts, make posters, and create ads, so there is definitely a lot happening,” said Noack.

With expansion projects at Sacred Heart, Noack’s job has required more attention due to the light that has been shining on the school.

“There’s no such thing as a typical day here. When I come in I’ll make a little list of the things that I think I’m going to get done, but that never happens because anything and everything can happen while working in this department,” said Noack.

Sacred Heart recently announced the creation of the School of Communications and Media Studies.

“We just went from a department to a school of communications, which is really exciting. The program is

constantly growing, with new majors and new sub topics under those majors,” said Noack. “On top of it, the new building is immaculate with state-of-the-art materials and equipment.”

Noack offers advice to students who are looking to follow a similar career path.

“We’re in a crazy technological world so the way we communicate is constantly changing, you have to be able to adapt to those changes,” said Noack. “I think that attention to detail is really important, whether that’s with ones writing skills or being able to spell and use words correctly. I also think it is really important to listen, listen to what is going on around you and don’t discount opportunities to dig deeper into a story.”

When Noack graduated, she had her heart set on working for a newspaper. She had never thought about working at a university, but is pleased with how everything turned out.

“It’s an exciting time to be at Sacred Heart,” said Noack.

“The school is growing and every day there is something new and exciting happening to share with the university community about what we’re going to build next, so it’s fun to be at a place that’s growing and vibrant.”

Student Government Cake-Off Event

STUDENTS ENJOY CAKE-OFF EVENT HOSTED BY JUNIOR CLASS SECTION OF STUDENT GOVERNMENT

BRITTANY EGER/SPECTRUM STAFF

Flipside Burgers & Bar College Burger Challenge

BY SPENCER STOVELL Staff Reporter Who makes the best burger? This month at Flipside Burgers & Bar, the second competition in a monthly series is currently being held between Sacred Heart University and Fairfield University, who are competing to claim the title of most popular burger.

Juniors Alison Hoag and Emily Murphy are members of Sacred Heart University’s culinary club, SHUsine, as well as employees of Flipside Burgers & Bar, commonly known as Flipside.

After expressing interest in creating a burger challenge to their manager, the first face off in the new burger competition at Flipside began.

“SHU won the first month overwhelmingly, but we are in a fight for the month of October,” said SHUsine Culinary Club advisor Rob Gilmore.

Customers who come in and order one of the collegeassociated burgers, both sold for $12, are participating in the challenge with their purchase counting as their vote.

A winner is then announced at the end of the month based on sales.

“Sacred Heart won in September, we are still in the

process of October and we’ll find out who officially wins it all in November,” said Hoag.

For September, Sacred Heart won with their Big Red’s Nacho Burger on the menu, which came with chili and tortilla chips topped with cheese sauce, guacamole and pico.

Fairfield University featured their Deep Fried B Burger topped with bacon, cream cheese and chives along with lettuce, tomato and ranch.

“It is a best of three [competition] so if we fail to win this month we will look forward to the November tiebreaker,” said Gilmore.

For October, Sacred Heart launched a new burger called the Pioneer Fall Slaw Burger. The burger includes cheddar cheese, onion rings, barbecue sauce with cinnamon sugar, and a fall slaw of cranberries and apples on a pretzel bun.

Fairfield presented a Chips and Dip Burger that includes Swiss cheese and grilled onions, with house made chips and French onion dip.

“I heard a lot of good reviews from students, I look forward to trying the SHU burger soon,” said junior Melissa Estime.

Sacred Heart students were sent emails informing them of the competition, and many heard about the challenge from friends who have participated.

“I went to Flipside Burger this month and I tried the burger, I liked the cheddar cheese, barbecue sauce, and brown sugar cinnamon flavors combined. I thought the pretzel bun was a nice addition to the other ingredients,” said freshman Christopher Turechek.

Once a winner is chosen, students of the winning school will receive 10% off their check with a valid student ID for the remainder of the school year.

“It’s a lot of fun, I think both burgers are really good.

It definitely boosted people’s morale. Having a burger competition between our across-town rivals is a good way to start the school year,” said Hoag.

Anyone interested in dining at Flipside is welcome to enjoy both the Fairfield and Sacred Heart burger special.

“If you’re just a family who lives in Fairfield and you want to order the Sacred Heart burger you’re more than welcome, but it’s been a lot of fun seeing our peers come out and support the SHU burger,” said Hoag.

If interested in trying either burgers, visit Flipside at 1125 Post Road in Fairfield.

Jessica Chaloux, Copy Editor, contributed to this article.

8 | A&E

The Sacred Heart Spectrum

October 28, 2015

Arts & Entertainment Halloween Weekend Movies

Check out films playing at Bow Tie Marquis 16 & BTX located in Trumbull, Conn.

Paranormal Activity: The Ghost Dimension Goosebumps The Martian

Steve Jobs Crimson Peak The Last Witch Hunter

Artist Corner

KOTOMI MIZUTANI/ SACRED HEART UNIVERSITY

THE HEART IN THE MIDDLE OF MIZUTANI’S PIECE REPRESENTS OUR SCHOOL, AND THE CHARACTER IN THE CENTER MEANS LOVE. WITHIN THE CHARACTER IS THE COMPONENT WHICH MEANS HEART.

October 28, 2015

The Sacred Heart Spectrum

Arts & Entertainment

A&E | 9

A New Funky Fresh Musical

“They’re Playing Our Song” Comes To Sacred Heart

BY LISA CARBONE

Staff Reporter

COURTESY OF THE THEATRE ARTS PROGRAM

THE TAP PROGRAM PREPARES FOR THEIR NEXT SHOW, WHICH WILL BE HELD IN THE LITTLE THEATRE

Sacred Heart University’s Theatre Arts Program is preparing for their newest Little Theatre musical, “They’re Playing Our Song.”

The show revolves around the story of Vernon Gersch, an established composer, and his relationship with Sonia Walsk, an aspiring lyricist. Set in 1972, the funky music of the play corresponds with playwright Neil Simon’s music

of the time.

The romantic relationship between Sonia and Vernon was based on the dynamic Broadway duo, composer Marvin Hamlisch and lyricist Carole Bayer Sager, who shared a romantic relationship while working together in New York in 1970s.

“Theatre has many creators involved from lighting to scenery to music, that come together to create a story on the stage. Ever since the school year started, everyone has been involved to create a great experience for the students,” said Jerry Goehring, the Executive Director of the Edgerton Center for the Performing Arts and the director of “They’re Playing Our Song.”

And the students can definitely agree.

“Even though it is set in the 70s and some of the jokes are more understood by people who were around back then, the heart of this story is timeless,” said senior Sarah Klaum, who portrays the role of Sonia.

Sophomore Christopher Faccenda plays the role of Vernon. Sophomore Emily Shea, senior Theresa Bertolino, sophomore Melissa Ferlo, sophomore Eddie Feely, freshman Matthew Henshaw, and freshman Henly Solomon portray the inner thoughts of the featured characters.

The cast and crew have been busy with music rehearsals, staging scenes, and learning the choreography.

“We began rehearsing in late September and have rehearsed almost every day since then. A typical rehearsal day includes several hours of music, acting and choreography work. Seeing as this show is based on two characters, it has been a huge commitment for me and Chris,” said Klaum.

Other cast members are excited for the fun and personal atmosphere that Sacred Heart’s Little Theatre provides to the audience members.

“The thing about shows in the Little Theatre is that they get put up pretty quickly. This is one of the more technically ambitious shows we’ve put on in the Little Theatre, so I’m excited to see the final result,” said Feeley.

The cast also feels that the audience will relate to the timeless tale of love.

“I think people of all ages would love this show because it has a little something for everyone, there’s love for those hopeless romantic people and there’s upbeat pop music that will get stuck in your head from when you first step foot into the theatre,” said Faccenda.

The cast believes that the story and music of “They’re Playing Our Song” will attract audiences of different tastes and interests.

“It’s got a mix of everything: from comedy to drama to romance, and it definitely will not disappoint. It will be interesting to see the audience’s reactions because of how different the show is, and hopefully they will love it as much as I do,” said Shea.

Goehring also hopes students and staff come out to support the cast and crew.

“I hope the audience takes away two ideas. One would be the great creative work of the students. The second would be for them to have experienced the story told.

To have the performance touch them in some way that they learn something new about other people,” said Goehring. “Ultimately, the main objective is to take the audience away for two hours and just enjoy the intimate performances from the students. That would mean we did a great job.”

“They’re Playing Our Song” opens Thursday, Oct. 29 at 8 p.m., and continues throughout the weekend, as well as the weekend of Nov. 5 – 8.

Tickets may be purchased at the Edgerton Center Box Office or online at edgertoncenter.org.

New York Times Reporter & Author Scott Shane A discussion of his new book, “Objective Troy”

BY KELLY DALTON

Staff Reporter

On Thursday, Oct. 22 Scott Shane was invited to Sacred Heart University as a part of the common core’s colloquia series.

Held in the Martire Forum, he presented his book titled “Objective Troy: A Terrorist, a President and the Rise of the Drone.” Shane discussed the story and inspiration behind the writing of his book.

“The colloquia was really inspiring and informative on how Iranians live life just like everyone else,” said sophomore Byron Abanto.

Scott Shane is a journalist for The New York Times and reports on the United States intelligence community. He has another book available entitled “Dismantling Utopia: How Information Ended the Soviet Union.” Also, he is a co-author of a six-part explanatory series on the NSA. Before working for the Times, Shane wrote for the Baltimore Sun from 1983 to 2004. Then, after 9/11, he spent most of his time reporting and working closely with national security news.

“He is a very good journalist. He knows how to keep the MARK F. CONRAD/ SACRED HEART UNIVERSITY viewer’s attention,” said junior Thomas Spierto.

During his presentation, Shane discussed what brought SCOTT SHANE SPEAKS TO A SACRED HEART STUDENT AFTER HIS DISCUSSION To help better explain and bring his book to life, Shane him to write the book. The main drive behind “Objective and the purposes they serve. He also spoke about the rise showed YouTube videos to illustrate and show examples of of drones since they were introduced into the American Troy” was the drone strike initiated by President Obama Awlaki’s and Obama’s story. to take out Al Qaeda member Anwar Al-Awlaki, hence the government and military. Someone can be sitting in a van Awlaki’s YouTube videos, along with his tapes, are title. in a remote relocation and operate the drone; this made the what made him known to the world. He became a very Obama wanted to have Awlaki found and captured, device widely popular. prominent public figure on social media. especially since was a traitor to his once-beloved country “Scott Shane’s presentation went really well. He “I thought the colloquia was interesting. The clips really of the United States. explained everything he needed to and his ideals were put emphasis on Scott’s point,” said sophomore Nyarah Awlaki’s situation was distinctive because he was backed up with research he had found. He was comfortable Morrison. the first American citizen to be publicly hunted and speaking in front of a large crowd of students,” said Scott Shane discussed how Americans were changed assassinated by his own government without trial since the Abanto. by the war on terrorism. Fear made Americans easily give Civil War. He had threatened an attack on America and the To find out more about Scott Shane, his works, or his away rights and freedoms. There was a greater awareness American people. book, visit his website at scottshane.net. of the need for security.

Obama wanted to silence Awlaki. There were very large Natalie Cioffari, Arts & Entertainment Editor, At the presentation, Shane discussed what drones were, rewards for anyone who knew where he was hiding out. contributed to this article.

10 | Sports

The Sacred Heart Spectrum

October 28, 2015

Sports

Men’s Rugby Making Playoff Push X-Men Looking To Win Championship

BY TOM PETICCA Staff Reporter

The Sacred Heart men’s club rugby team came into the 2015 season with a lot to prove. They finished the previous season with a 7-2 record, and made it to the playoffs. They also entered this season with a new coach.

The way the 2015 season started, the team was ready to prove that they can be a dominant team in their division.

They opened the season with three straight divisional wins, including wins over Montclair State University, Hofstra University, and a win against non-divisional opponent Marist College. However, those games took a toll on the team, with multiple starters suffering injuries that would sideline them for a few games.

“Injuries have plagued our team and it affected our rhythm a lot,” said junior Maurice Fabiani.

The team suffered injuries to over five key players that sidelined them for as many as three to four weeks in some instances. That being the case, the X-Men lost two games in the division, including a heart breaking loss to Seton Hall on the road. The loss put them in a must win situation to make the playoffs.

The next game came at home against Molloy College on Oct. 18. It was a hard fought game that the X-Men won by

a 33-19 score. The win sent them back to the playoffs for the second straight season.

“For us to overcome so many injuries this year and still be able to make it back to the playoffs was big for us. It really shows the resiliency of this team and I’m proud of all the guys that stepped up when we needed them,” said junior captain Matthew Calton.

The 2015 X-Men have no seniors on the roster. Half of their team (15 out of 30 players) are juniors. Their freshman year, many of them were new to the sport and put together a season that only produced one win. But the more they played together, the better they became. The team finished last season with a 7-2 record. They currently have a 6-2 record for this season.

“I feel like the team chemistry we have leads us to work well together,” said Fabiani. “I don’t think we’ve reached our peak yet. Coaching has really helped.”

The X-Men are in their first year under new head coach Ray Peterson. Peterson has played in over 900 rugby matches in his life. He also has experience at the USA rugby level. Last season he was the head coach of the University of New Haven women’s rugby team.

“Having a new coach this season was certainly a challenge, but playing with so many of these guys for the last two years really helped us learn together,” said Calton.

“Our previous coach taught us the game very well, now

we have Coach Ray and he will bring us to the next level,” said junior captain Jason Libertelli Having a new coach isn’t the only thing that has the team excited. Many players expressed how impressed they were with how the freshmen on the team were able to come in and learn the game so well.

“The freshmen are all learning a lot,” said Fabiani.

“They really picked up the game quickly. I have been very impressed and I am excited to get the chance to play with them more,” said Calton.

One freshman in particular has really stood out to Libertelli.

“Joey Fox has definitely been the standout freshman this year,” he said. “Although all have been great.”

Fox has started all seven games for the X-Men this season.

The Sacred Heart X-Men have come a long way from posting a one win season just two years ago, and a lot of the recent success has been attributed to the experience they have gained in playing, as well as the closeness of the team.

The X-Men defeated Vassar College 50-21 on Saturday, Oct. 25 in the Tri-State Conference quarterfinals. They will play at Molloy College on Sunday, Nov. 1 in the semifinals at a time to be announced as of publication. The winner of the conference will move on to regionals.

Strength & Conditioning Coaches Keep Athletes Primed to Perform

BY OSEDEBAMEN IMEOKPARIA Staff Reporter

Each year at Sacred Heart University, 31 Division I teams kick off the season in their respective sports. The strength and conditioning staff helps each team go into their season prepared, and helps maintain what they gained during the offseason throughout the regular season.

This is only Sacred Heart’s second year with a strength and conditioning program. In past years it has been coaches and local trainers who would take on the task for their team. In May of 2014 that all changed when Sacred Heart brought in head strength and conditioning coach Chris Fee. Previously, Fee spent one year at Morehead State University. Prior to that, he worked for five years at Yale University.

“I was the first official hire [for Sacred Heart’s program]. That was exciting to start my own kind of program.

In past years they had sports coaches and local outsiders helping their team,” said Fee. “I also grew up in Connecticut so I knew a lot about Sacred Heart University. I knew it had a ton of Division IA athletes. It has a lot of potential and that’s what drew me here. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity for me so it was a no brainer for me to come to Sacred Heart University,” said Fee. On the strength and conditioning staff with Fee is assistant coach Wayne Adams, who worked with Fee before coming to Sacred Heart, and graduate assistants Sam Reffsin, Jeancarlos Lezema and Andrew Brigley.

“It’s a very enjoyable experience working here. The athletes here are pretty motivated compared to other places I have been,” said Adams. “It’s just the culture here-everyone seems to be motivated; it makes our job that much easier to push someone to get better.”

“It’s great to work with student athletes. We are all working for one goal. You don’t get that from a private facility or personal training,” said Reffsin.

Brigley, a former offensive lineman on the football team and all-NEC selection at Sacred Heart, is very familiar with both sides of the training experience.

“Working at Sacred Heart University is a great opportunity. Being a former athlete here, I understand how the system has worked previously and now that we have a well-developed strength and conditioning staff,” said Brigley.

Since the program has been a part of the Sacred Heart Athletic Department, there have been improvements in

THE FOOTBALL TEAM WORKS ON STRENGTH TRAINING BEFORE THEIR GAME ON SATURDAY

the weight room equipment, and the addition of bands and rollers to help prevent injuries. The staff also helps the student athletes by providing a nutrition guide on how to eat properly.

“It’s great to have a program like the one Coach Fee and his staff implements. It finally gives us the proper training we track and field athletes need,” said junior Joshua Beloff.

Beloff is a sprinter, long jumper and triple jumper in track and field. He was an all-NEC selection and silver medalist at the NEC (Northeast Conference) Championships (indoor & outdoor).

“They are also very motivating in helping us hit heavier weight. They push us to our breaking limits, which I enjoy personally. We have been doing a lot of explosiveness work which has helped me get out of the blocks faster, run a faster 200, and jump further in long jump,” said Beloff “It’s like a performance on stage, where we are just in

OSEDEBAMEN IMEOKPARIA/SPECTRUM STAFF

the back and the athletes are the ones performing. We don’t take credit for it but it’s great to see your athletes succeed.

When they perform best it’s a great, humbling experience,” said Lezema.

The staff not only benefits the athletes, but the coaches as well.

“It’s a lot easier on us as coaches. In years past we never had a strength and conditioning coach. It was always one of the football coaches trying to do that job as well as coach and recruit, causing a strain in the program,” said head football coach Mark Nofri.

Since the inception of the strength and conditioning program, Sacred Heart Athletics has seen a number of conference championships and two NCAA playoff berths. The staff looks to grow its successes and to continue upgrading Pioneer athletics.

11 | Sports

The Sacred Heart Spectrum

Sports

October 28, 2015

Hoops Madness Rallies Campus for Basketball Season

BY ANTHONY SANTINO Assist. Sports Editor

On Oct. 23, the Sacred Heart men’s and women’s basketball teams took part in the annual ‘SHU Hoops Madness.’ Hosted on Coach Bike Court, the main floor in the William H. Pitt Center gym, the event was a kick-off celebration to ring in the new season for both teams.

The night started at 9 p.m., with Randy Brochu, Academic Services and Student Development Coordinator and a broadcaster for Sacred Heart Athletics, introducing the two teams to a packed house. A DJ set, along with smoke and flashing lights, accompanied the players for their entrances.

For junior guard/forward Shelby Hickey of women’s basketball, Hoops Madness provides a good night of fun for her and her teammates.

“The atmosphere is great for us,” said Hickey. “Everybody loves each other, so we’re all having fun out here tonight, regardless of what we do [this season].”

Players don’t have all the fun at the event, though. Other Sacred Heart students who attend Hoops Madness show their appreciation for the experience, too.

“It’s great to see the Sacred Heart community come out to support the basketball program, and it’s a good time,” said sophomore Danielle Guth.

After the teams were introduced to the crowd, some of the players partook in friendly rounds of a three-point shootout and a dunk contest. Both competitions drew great applause and enthusiasm from those in attendance.

Following the two displays of basketball skills, the players had a chance to show off some of their dance moves.

As headlined, the Sugarhill Gang, one of hip-hop’s pioneering collectives, joined the players on the floor. They performed some of their hit songs, which included “Rapper’s Delight” and “Apache (Jump on It)”. While the group rapped, Sacred Heart’s dance team and basketball players danced alongside them as part of the performance.

Both the men’s and the women’s basketball teams are looking to be doing some dancing come March. The phrase “they’re going dancing” is a common one in reference to a team that qualifies to play in the NCAA Div. I Basketball Tournament.

The Pioneer women’s team made their first of three national tournament appearances in the 2005-06 season.

The men’s program won the Div. II national championship back in 1986. Winning the Northeast Conference title would give the Pioneer men their first automatic bid to the Div. I tournament.

“Our goal is to get better everyday and to put ourselves in contention to win a league championship,” said men’s basketball head coach Anthony Latina.

Latina’s players have been working hard this preseason to make that goal a reality.

“We’re just trying to improve in all areas,” said Latina. “We have a good mix of veterans and new guys who are coming together, trying to get to know each other a little

PIONEERS DANCE TO SUGARHILL GANG’S HIT SONG “JUMP ON IT”

ALEXA BRISSON/SPECTRUM

bit better every day, and getting to play better together, too.”

Last season, the Pioneer men had a record just under .500, finishing 15-17. Although not a bad wins-loss compilation, it does not match their ambition for this upcoming campaign.

Senior forward Jordan Allen, who was Sacred Heart’s leading bench scorer and rebounder last year, looks to do better in the 2015-16 season than he did last season.

“Last year, I turned the ball over a little too much,” said Allen. “I played about 22 minutes a game, and that’s a lot of time to do a lot of things on the floor. I just want to be more effective this year.”

Also looking to improve on last year is the women’s team. Although they had a 16-13 regular season record, they lost to St. Francis Brooklyn in the first round of the conference tournament. But, like the men, the Sacred Heart’s women’s team is on the hunt for a championship.

“We want to get a banner,” said women’s basketball head coach Jessica Mannetti. “We have a great crop of young kids that have come in, and we have a great group of returners.

So I definitely think this could be a great year for us.”

Now that the smoke is cleared and the Sugarhill Gang set is over, it’s back to the grind for Sacred Heart basketball. As tip-off approaches for both teams, so do the title runs.

Jets Come Up Short Again in New England, Lose to Pats 30-23 Over Former Teammates

BY ASSOCIATED PRESS FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — Brandon Marshall recovered an onside kick that gave the New York Jets a chance against the New England Patriots.

Then, his false start penalty led to a 10-second clock runoff that ended the game and left the Jets with a frustrating 30-23 loss to their AFC East rivals Sunday.

“Games like this, situations like this, it creates championship teams or it creates teams that fold,” Marshall said. “We’ll take a day and get this nasty taste out of our mouth and come tomorrow and move on.”

New York led 20-16 in the fourth quarter, outgained the Patriots 372 yards to 353, and held New England to just 16 yards rushing. But the Jets could not hold on, coming up short for the ninth time in their last 11 meetings with the Patriots, and losing a chance to move into a tie for the division lead.

The Jets (4-2) held New England (6-0) to just 16 points and 205 yard over the first three quarters. But Tom Brady threw for a pair of touchdowns in the fourth, completing 14 of 17 passes in the final 15 minutes.

The Super Bowl MVP was 34 of 54 for 355 yards overall — numbers that would have been even better if not for the 11 drops by his receivers, six by newly activated Brandon LaFell.

“Tom is great at dissecting any defense and that’s what he did down the stretch,” said Jets cornerback Darrelle Revis, who spent last season in New England. “He ended up making more plays than us. He ended up finding the matchups that he wanted to find and made the plays he needed to throw.”

The Jets rallied in the final minute, kicking a 55-yard field goal on first down with 18 seconds left and then recovering the onside kick. But after a short pass from Ryan Fitzpatrick left the Jets 37 yards from the tying score, before Marshall’s penalty ended the game.

“There is a lot of fight in this team, but we know that,” Fitzpatrick said. “We can’t really take any moral victories from it.”

Fitzpatrick finished 22 of 39 for 295 yards and two touchdowns. Chris Ivory, who

entered as the AFC’s leading rusher, was held to 41 yards on 17 carries while dealing with a sore hamstring he tweaked early in the game.

“He was in the game and he was healthy,” coach Todd Bowles said. “You’ve got to give (the Patriots’ defense) credit. They get paid, too.”

Fitzpatrick fumbled on the second play of the game, giving the Patriots the ball at the New York 19. After losing 1 yard in three plays — including Brady’s first sack of the game — Stephen Gostkowski kicked the first of his three field goals.

Folk tied it for New York and then the Jets went 83 yards on the next drive to take a 10-3 lead on Fitzpatrick’s 5-yard pass to Jeremy Kerley.

On the next New England possession, the Patriots stalled with a third-and-10 at the Jets 13, but Brady scrambled for 11 yards for the first down. James White was stopped short of the goal line and, after an incompletion to Gronkowski, Brady connected with the big tight end but he couldn’t get into the end zone.

On fourth down from the 1, Brady jumped over the line on a keeper to make it 10-10.

Gostkowski’s second field goal gave New England the 13-10 lead going into the half.

Rob Gronkowski had a career-high 11 catches for 108 yards and a touchdown, Danny Amendola had eight for 86 and a TD and Brady also scored on a keeper from the 1 to give the defending Super Bowl champions their ninth straight victory, dating to last year’s playoffs.

New York led 20-16 after Fitzpatrick hit Ivory for a 9-yard score late in the third and Nick Folk kicked the second of his three field goals. Brady was 7 for 8 for 85 yards on the next drive, finishing it off with an 8-yard touchdown pass to Amendola, who was upended before landing on the goal line.

The Jets went four-and-out and then Brady took over again, completing seven of nine attempts for 65 yards and ending it on a 15-yarder to a wide open Gronkowski, who trotted in untouched to make it 30-20.

“It’s Week 7,” Revis said. “We knew what this game meant in terms of being on top in the division. But we’re fine. We’ve got a long season.”

October 28, 2015

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